David Lynch rates Liverpool’s chances in ‘absolutely crazy’ Merseyside Derby

Photo: IMAGO

Physical Battle Could Decide Outcome

One of the clearest themes from the discussion was Liverpool’s ongoing struggle with physical contests.

Lynch recalled previous visits to Goodison Park as a reference point, saying those matches exposed a weakness in dealing with “physicality, the games where it just becomes scrappy and horrible”.

He added that Liverpool “do not look any better equipped to deal with that than they did last season”, which raises a concern heading into this derby.

The expectation is a match low on rhythm and high on duels. Long balls, second balls and territorial battles are likely to dominate. Lynch predicted “scrappy, barely any football played”, a scenario that has troubled Liverpool repeatedly.

What a Result Means for Liverpool

Beyond local pride, the result carries broader implications. Liverpool are chasing key objectives in the Premier League and every point matters.

Lynch suggested that, given current form, even a draw would be acceptable. “I think I would deal on a draw if you offer it to me now,” he said, reflecting the difficulty of the task.

A win, however, would do more than add points. It would shift momentum, improve fan sentiment and offer evidence that Arne Slot can prepare his side for hostile, high intensity fixtures.

Derby That Could Shape Season Mood

The first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium is not just another game. It sits at the intersection of rivalry, uncertainty and expectation.

Liverpool arrive with questions to answer. Everton arrive with a crowd ready to amplify every moment.

As Lynch put it, victory for Liverpool would feel like “a nice surprise”. That alone tells you how finely balanced, and potentially defining, this derby could be.